In a world still grappling with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, another viral outbreak has sparked growing concern—Mpox. Though not a new virus, Mpox has recently gained renewed attention due to a sharp rise in infections, especially from the more virulent Clade 1 strain. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared Mpox a “public health emergency,” underscoring the global threat it poses. The virus has spread across continents, affecting countries as far apart as Sweden and Pakistan, with Pakistan reporting its first case in 2022. As the virus continues to spread globally, understanding its nature, how it transmits, and the steps Pakistan must take to mitigate its impact is critical.
What Is Mpox and How Does It Spread?
Mpox is a zoonotic virus, meaning it originates in animals and spreads to humans. It belongs to the same family as the smallpox virus but generally causes milder symptoms. The virus first appeared in humans in the 1970s in Africa, with cases largely confined to Central and West African countries until the recent outbreak. However, after 2022, Mpox began spreading globally, sparking alarm over its more severe variant, the Clade 1 strain, which has resulted in more serious illnesses and, in some rare cases, fatalities.
The virus typically enters the body through broken skin or mucous membranes, such as the eyes, nose, or mouth. Once inside, it travels through the bloodstream, triggering flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches, and distinctive pus-filled sores on the skin. Most infections resolve on their own within two to four weeks, but for individuals with compromised immune systems—such as untreated HIV patients or children—the risk of severe illness is significantly higher.
The emergence of the Clade 1 strain has heightened concerns due to its more rapid spread and its ability to transmit through intimate, skin-to-skin contact, including sexual transmission. For countries like Pakistan, where population density is high and healthcare facilities are already under strain, the virus presents a serious public health challenge. The risk of rapid spread is particularly high in areas with limited access to medical resources.
Mpox in Pakistan: A Wake-up Call
In September 2024, Pakistan reported its sixth confirmed Mpox case, a development that highlighted serious flaws in the country’s preparedness to deal with emerging infectious diseases. The patient, a 33-year-old worker returning from Saudi Arabia, passed through Islamabad Airport without being detected, despite showing visible symptoms of the virus. The case was only identified after the individual sought medical help in Peshawar, raising concerns over Pakistan’s border control and screening processes at international entry points.
This incident has exposed weaknesses in the country’s surveillance and healthcare infrastructure, particularly in terms of monitoring incoming travelers from high-risk areas. The fact that the patient bypassed airport screenings demonstrates the need for more stringent measures to detect and contain potential carriers of the virus before they have a chance to interact with the broader population.
The Global Spread of Mpox and Lessons from COVID-19
The Mpox outbreak is not unique to Pakistan; it is a growing global issue. The WHO’s declaration of a public health emergency underscores the seriousness of the situation. Cases have been reported across Europe and Africa, with Sweden and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) among the hardest-hit regions. According to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the continent saw a dramatic 160% increase in Mpox cases in 2023, along with a 19% rise in deaths attributed to the virus.
The ongoing Mpox outbreak mirrors some of the early warning signs from the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in terms of the virus’s ability to spread across borders. One of the most important lessons from the COVID-19 crisis is the value of early detection, containment, and international collaboration. While the global threat posed by Mpox is not yet on the same scale as COVID-19, the risk of complacency is high. Delaying action could lead to larger outbreaks, especially in vulnerable countries with weaker healthcare systems.
Key Takeaways from the COVID-19 Experience
The COVID-19 pandemic has taught the world that early diagnosis, timely containment, and coordinated international responses are crucial in managing viral outbreaks. The emergence of Mpox may not lead to a global epidemic of the same magnitude, but its ability to spread rapidly—combined with limited healthcare infrastructure in certain regions—means that prompt action is necessary. Countries must establish early warning systems, improve diagnostic capabilities, and ensure equitable access to vaccines.
One of the major hurdles in controlling Mpox is the limited availability of vaccines. While some Western nations have stockpiled Mpox vaccines, African countries are facing severe shortages. The Africa CDC has secured 280,000 vaccine doses, but with two doses required per person, only 140,000 people can be vaccinated—leaving vast numbers of the population unprotected. This disparity in vaccine access mirrors the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, where wealthier nations were able to secure vaccines more quickly than their poorer counterparts.
Pakistan’s Response: Short-Term and Long-Term Strategies
Short-Term Measures: Strengthening Surveillance and Screening
Pakistan must immediately address the gaps in its screening and surveillance systems, particularly at its major international airports, including those in Islamabad and Karachi. Current airport screenings, which primarily rely on temperature checks, are insufficient for detecting Mpox cases. A more comprehensive approach is needed, including detailed symptom questionnaires and visual inspections for the characteristic skin lesions associated with the virus.
Additionally, Pakistan should bolster its public health infrastructure to ensure that suspected cases are quickly isolated and treated. As seen in the case of the Saudi-returned worker, delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to the virus spreading within the community.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Lessons from COVID-19
Another critical area for improvement is public education. During the COVID-19 pandemic, public awareness campaigns emphasizing hygiene, social distancing, and early medical intervention were instrumental in slowing the virus’s spread. Similar efforts must now be made for Mpox, especially in rural areas where healthcare access is more limited and awareness of the virus may be low. Public messaging should focus on recognizing symptoms, understanding transmission routes, and encouraging people to seek medical attention at the first sign of illness.
Long-Term Strategies: Securing Vaccines and International Collaboration
In the long term, Pakistan must work closely with international organizations such as the WHO and Africa CDC to secure access to Mpox vaccines and antiviral drugs. While there is no specific antiviral treatment for Mpox yet, ongoing research may soon lead to viable options. Vaccination remains the most effective tool for preventing severe illness and controlling the spread of the virus. Securing a steady supply of vaccines will be essential for protecting high-risk populations, including healthcare workers and individuals with compromised immune systems.
A Global Threat Demands Collective Action
The Mpox outbreak serves as a stark reminder of how interconnected the world is today. A virus that originated in rural African communities has now spread to multiple continents, including Europe and Asia. The ease with which infectious diseases can cross borders in today’s globalized world means that no country is immune to the threat.
For Pakistan, the implications are clear: the government must take immediate steps to strengthen its public health infrastructure, improve screening protocols at airports and other entry points, and ensure that vaccines are accessible to those who need them most. At the same time, international cooperation and equitable vaccine distribution will be critical in preventing the virus from evolving into a full-blown global health crisis.
A Wake-Up Call for Action
The Mpox virus is a wake-up call for countries around the world to act swiftly and decisively. While the risk of a global pandemic remains uncertain, the lessons from COVID-19 are clear: early intervention, public awareness, and international collaboration are the keys to preventing widespread outbreaks. Pakistan, like other nations, must learn from these lessons and take bold steps to protect its population and prevent Mpox from becoming another global health catastrophe. The world cannot afford to ignore the warning signs. The time to act is now.
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